Advances in the understanding of health disparities in the United States Hispanic population.

Abstract

Health disparities have become a major concern for global public health, disproportionately affecting minority and underserved populations throughout the United States (U.S.). Hispanics make up the fastest-growing minority group in the U.S., and they often experience significant health disparities when it comes to chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. These disparities are likely driven by a confluence of socioeconomic disadvantages, structural inequities, environmental exposures, and cultural barriers. While Hispanics experience a disproportionate burden of incidence and mortality, they may paradoxically exhibit improved survival compared to non-Hispanic Whites, as is the case for hepatocellular carcinoma. This phenomenon is termed the Hispanic paradox. This review summarizes current evidence on well-known factors such as age, sex and gender, socioeconomic status, neighborhood poverty, insurance type, and diet, as well as less-known factors, including environmental exposures, lifestyle, and cultural differences that influence health outcomes in Hispanics. It also highlights critical gaps in disaggregated data that limit a complete understanding of these disparities until further subgroup-specific analyses are performed. Ultimately, the commentary calls for culturally competent care, inclusive research that accounts for heterogeneity within Hispanic groups, and public health policies that not only reduce structural inequities but also comprehensively improve healthcare access, affordability, and lifestyle support.